Importing a used vehicle into New Zealand? Don’t let biosecurity contamination derail your plans. A simple valet clean won’t cut it—vehicles must be thoroughly cleaned inside and out to meet New Zealand’s strict biosecurity requirements.

MPI’s guidance outlines common contamination risks and practical tips to ensure compliance. That means tackling everything from insect egg masses, seeds, and soil under the bonnet, to vacuuming under the seats and inspecting wheel wells and mudguards. Even the vehicle’s underside and engine bay need a thorough going-over with high-pressure hoses and bright torches.

Key takeaways:

• Use appropriate cleaning tools: high-pressure hoses, vacuums, sticky tape, and insecticides where needed.
• Focus on both visible and hidden areas—grilles, tyre trays, boot spaces, roof racks, and underbody protection plates.
• Keep the vehicle clean and isolated post-cleaning to avoid recontamination.
• Don’t forget: if personal effects are included, they must be separately declared and packaged.

Failure to meet the required cleanliness standard may result in extra inspections, delays, and costs—all at the importer’s expense. So don’t just make it look good—make it biosecurity clean.